Palmer Trinity School

Neat Stuff Helps Kids By Susi Cetta, Director of Major Gifts Mother Theresa once said, "Try to give unconditionally whatever a person needs in the moment. The point is to do something, however small, and show you care through your actions by giving your time." Neat Stuff is a wonderful place to serve others and it fills you with gratitude for the possibilities of mankind. My volunteer work helped a mom named Maria… Maria, is a 33 year old homeless mother of four children ranging from ages 1 to 7. She currently calls a downtown shelter home, and is unsure about her future. She is happy about finally freeing herself from an abusive relationship with her husband of 10 years. At the core, Maria is not very different from you and I- she wants very much for her children to be happy and healthy. Maria says, "I want them to have a better life than I've had. I want them to be safe, to have a place to call home, to finish school, and go to college." She tells of how recently, she didn't have any money to purchase clothing and school uniforms for her children and worried they would not be ready for the new school year. Luckily, the homeless shelter social worker knew about Neat Stuff, to provide Maria and her children, the clothing they desperately needed. I later learned that Maria's family was placed in safe housing, mom now has a job and the children are enrolled in day care and school. The children were able to visit the Neat Stuff store and each child received a week's worth of brand new casual clothing, pajamas, undergarments, shoes and school uniforms. The basic needs of clothing and shelter provide a sense of security and safetythankfully, this family is on their way to building their future. Since 2007, Palmer Trinity students have been providing community service hours at the Neat Stuff store, by (1) sorting and organizing clothing donations, (2) hosting clothing and sock drives, and (3) helping out with special events. Heather Coule Bardier, Palmer Trinity School's, Director of Community Service said, "I think Neat Stuff is a great place for our students to serve because they have the opportunity to impact the lives of children in our local community. The interactions with the children and the assistance they provide to the organization help them see they can make a difference. Our students learn more about themselves and experience the blessings of giving their time to help others." Palmer Trinity Seniors Cole Brockway and Michael Borguss have been outstanding volunteers for Neat Stuff this past year. They have truly made a difference in helping the children we serve, 16 by unpacking pallets of clothing, organizing and stocking the shelves of our new South store (which is set to open in a couple of months). Cole has also personally solicited donations from his family and friends on behalf of Neat Stuff's children. Left to Right: Daniel Alfonso, Sadiki Saunders, Gina Tomasetti, Ali Fuog, Lindsey Richie, Luis Asensio, and Nick Gangemi.

• Cover